New paradigm in advanced composite and nanocomposite design

Abstract

Advanced composite materials are characterized by lightweight and unusually high stiffness, strength, modulus, etc. [ 1 , 2 ]. Their application field keeps on expanding as cheaper methods for synthesizing raw materials are found. Composite materials are now found in virtually all facets of applied materials [3] . Unlike a few decades ago when their application was limited to small parts; for example spoilers, failings, bonnets, etc., currently a new generation of airplane fuselage and wings are completely made of high-performance fiber reinforced composites [ 4 – 6 ]. The inherent high specific strength, low density, chemical and corrosion resistance [7] make them ideal for future applications. Typically, composite materials consist of a combination of two or more materials that are mixed with an aim of achieving a specific structural properties [8] . An effective composite should be able to optimize the properties of the individual components as one.